Used 2012 Nissan NV3500 HD Van Review & Ratings

Japanese auto manufacturer Nissan hasn't always been known for its vans; its sporty cars and tough SUVs have always gotten the most attention in its lineup. However, with the emergence of a new full-size van line, the Nissan NV line, which premiered for the 2011 model year, Nissan is sure to garner more attention in this area. NV actually stands for Nissan Van, and the vehicle is sold in the United States and Canada. Previously, Nissan was not selling a full-size van in North America except in Mexico, where the Nissan Urvan was sold. The Urvan will now be replaced by the Nissan NV, however.

The Nissan NV is based on the F-Alpha platform- as seen on the full-size Nissan Titan pickup truck. This platform is heavily modified for the NV, however, as it features at flat loading floor, so what the two models share most heavily is appearance and powertrain parts. The NV3500 HD is only available with AWD, however, while the Titan comes with other options as well. It may come as a surprise to some drivers that the Nissan Van is not directed primarily at full-size vans such as the Chevrolet Express and Ford E Series, but rather at traditional buyers who want more room and comfort. It does, however, compete nicely with this models-as well as the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.

The 2012 Nissan NV3500 Van is the largest of the NV lineup this year (and in the lineup in general). To give a short review of the (informally known) "one-ton" van: it comes with an excellent starting price, and its horsepower outshines its competitors. Even at the top of the line, the NV3500 has a starting price of $30,590, which is over nine thousand dollars less than a comparable Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. Perhaps its most impressive feature, though, is its high roof, which was previously only seen in more luxurious vans (like the Sprinter). It does have limited power options, however, which is unfortunate, and though the van doesn't really offer anything positive aesthetically, it doesn't really need to do so; it's a cargo van, and it performs that function well. The NV3500 comes in several trim options, with the most expensive becoming somewhat pricey compared to similar vehicles on the market. But, with free exterior graphics and no-charge upfit shelving through Nissan's partner companies, there's not much one can complain about as far as the NV3500 HD Van is concerned.